CHOIRS forced to shut down due to the coronavirus lockdown have been revived with a difference, thanks to an imaginative musician.
Singing teacher Heather Baker has launched her own free mass singalong and has been overwhelmed by the response.
People from all over Cheshire joined her online virtual choir - belting out Gloria Gaynor's classic I Will Survive whilst self-isolating at home.
"It went really well," said mum Heather, who has two daughters aged four and six. "We had around 100 people taking part including some family groups and everyone seemed to have a great time."
Heather chose Gloria Gaynor's I Will Survive for her first singalong
Heather recorded the iconic song on a backing track in two-part harmony, soprano and alto.
"People heard both parts and could join in whichever they chose," said Heather, 37, who runs five choirs. "They were able to sing along with me at home."
Heather plans to run her singalong every Thursday evening from 8pm to 9pm.
It is free to register and open to anyone aged 16 and over.
Heather is encouraging everyone to sing together as it has so many health benefits
"I am deliberately picking the cheesiest songs I can find," she said. "My choirs always do up tempo feel good songs.
"I will do a different song each week and every session will start afresh.This is for anyone and everyone who wants to take part."
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Performance has always played a key part in Heather's life.
"Acting was my first love," she said. "Then I discovered musical theatre and whilst studying performing arts at uni I met a vocal coach. I trained to teach voice and never looked back."
Singing in a choir makes you feel better, say scientists
Singing in a choir has been proved to be good for your health.
Heather said: "All sorts of scientific experiments have been done and found that singing lowers heart rate, decreases stress hormones, increases endorphins and reduces the risk of heart disease.
"It has shown to help with memory."
Heather Baker runs five pop choirs across Cheshire
Heather has a studio in Northwich and tutors individuals and groups of adults and children. She runs pop choirs across Cheshire.
"Everyone should sing, it is fun and makes you feel good," said Heather, who plays the piano and can accommodate up to 500 singers for her virtual choir.
Heather will be singing The Time Of My Life by Patrick Swayze tomorrow evening, Thursday, April 2 at 8pm.
"Invite your friends and your family, grab a glass of wine and join us for a bit of fun," said Heather. "Let’s cheer up nation and keep everyone happy."
To register visit The Weekly Online Sing with Heather Baker on Facebook and you will receive a link to the sessions.
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